Chapter 530

Ethan Roscente set down his coffee cup with a sharp clink against the glass table.

"I've faced that woman before. She was formidable. Pity she's gone now."

Ethan's fingers tapped rhythmically on the table. His voice turned glacial. "Who said she's dead?"

Patrick Alpinus adjusted his glasses. "The person who appeared recently does resemble Shadow. But the Dark Web has launched an investigation. That's dangerous for her."

Only one word registered in Ethan's mind—danger. His knuckles whitened, brows furrowing.

Vivian Laurent was in trouble. Those people wouldn't let her go.

He stood abruptly, his chair screeching across the floor.

Felix Valdemar blinked. "Where are you going?"

"Business." Ethan snatched his car keys and strode out.

Patrick and Felix exchanged glances. "What's gotten into him lately?" Patrick muttered.

"Who knows," Felix shrugged.

Tires screeched as Ethan's car halted outside the hospital. He marched inside, only to learn Vivian hadn't come to work today.

As he turned to leave, his gaze landed on the VIP ward.

Ten minutes later, he stood outside a hospital room holding a fruit basket. Without waiting for permission, he pushed the door open.

Liam Valdemar reclined against the pillows, reading. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting dappled shadows across his pale face.

"Wrong room?" Liam's voice was feather-light.

Ethan placed the basket on the nightstand. "No mistake." His eyes were blades.

Liam closed his book. "I don't know you."

"I'm Vivian Laurent's husband."

A smirk. "She only mentioned having a useless ex."

Their gazes clashed like crossed swords. The room temperature seemed to plummet.

Ethan noted Liam's frail appearance belied eyes sharp as poisoned daggers. "Certain people bring her danger," he said lowly. "I won't stand by."

Liam's fingers traced the book's spine. "You worry too much, Mr. Roscente." His smile didn't reach his eyes. "I can protect her."

"Can you?" Ethan's laugh was icy. "A man who can't even protect himself."

Liam's expression darkened. The air between them turned to frost.

Ethan leaned down, his whisper a lethal promise at Liam's ear: "Stay away from her. Or else—" The unspoken threat hung heavy.

Liam tilted his head, lips curling dangerously. "Mr. Roscente, that's my line."

Their eyes locked again—sparks flying, tension crackling.